Smithsonian Unveils "On Air" Video Series for Middle School Classrooms

WASHINGTON, Sept. 1, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum has unveiled a new educational video series, "On Air," designed to bring the wonders of aerospace into middle school classrooms. This initiative aims to enhance learning experiences by providing engaging content that aligns with national standards.

Launched for the 2026-2027 school year, "On Air" will release a series of short, classroom-friendly videos each month, starting in September. These videos, suitable for students in grades five through eight, delve into a variety of topics, including weather, the solar system, art, air ships, moons, and comets and meteors, over the course of the school year.

Each month’s collection will consist of four videos, each under 10 minutes, and an accompanying educator guide packed with resources, student activities, and comprehensive lesson plans. The series is structured to offer a multifaceted approach to learning, with each video addressing different aspects of the main topic.

The first video, titled "Setting the Scene," introduces the theme from the museum's perspective and expertise. "Collection Connection" then explores artifacts from the Smithsonian's collection and links them to students' learning. "Career Paths" highlights inspiring individuals in the aerospace industry, providing insights into their journeys to success. Finally, "Teacher Tips" offers guidance to educators, breaking down lessons into manageable parts and suggesting ways to extend classroom learning.

These videos will be accessible on YouTube and through a specially designed video player on the "On Air" website, making them easy to integrate into lesson plans. The museum’s website provides more information about the series and how educators can utilize it in their classrooms.

"On Air" is a collaborative effort, supported by Amazon, Boeing, and the Hexcel Foundation. This support underscores the importance of fostering a deeper understanding of aerospace among young learners.

The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, located at 650 Jefferson Dr. S.W. in Washington, D.C., invites students and educators to explore the wonders of aerospace. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day except Christmas Day, with free admission. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, located near Washington Dulles International Airport, is open at the same times and offers free admission with optional parking fees.